“They do not address any problems with competition. They're basically requiring an unspecified demonstration of benefits that they've never required in any other case. We are very confused, we are very disappointed.”

“The decision is inconsistent with all of the (agency's) prior decisions wherein they have consistently granted antitrust immunity to other global alliances, especially when, as here, the proposal is pro-competitive and will greatly benefit consumers.”

“This is the hardest I have ever worked in trying to ask the government to let Northwest pay. All we're trying to do is pay what we owe currently $3.8 billion, as opposed to terminating and dumping the liability on the government. And in order to be allowed to pay, I have had to hire a number of people to help me explain.”

“We are truly surprised and disappointed by the DOT's actions. The decision is inconsistent with all of the DOT's prior decisions wherein they have consistently granted ATI to other global alliances, especially when, as here, the proposal is pro-competitive and will greatly benefit consumers.”